Smart TVs Are Invading Privacy and Should Be Investigated, Senators Say (arstechnica.com)

Earlier this month, The New York Times reported that a number of smart TV makers include services from companies that track a range of viewer information about their customers. Now, two Democratic US senators are asking the Federal Trade Commission to investigate privacy problems related to Internet-connected televisions. From a report: "Many Internet-connected smart TVs are equipped with sophisticated technologies that can track the content users are watching and then use that information to tailor and deliver targeted advertisements to consumers," Sens. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) wrote in a letter yesterday to FTC Chairman Joseph Simons. "Regrettably, smart TV users may not be aware of the extent to which their televisions are collecting sensitive information about their viewing habits." The letter asked the FTC to "launch an investigation into the privacy policies and practices of smart TV manufacturers." When contacted by Ars, an FTC spokesperson confirmed that the agency received the letter from Markey and Blumenthal, but the FTC offered no further comment.

Comments

Use Other Devices

[Luthair]

There are plenty of inexpensive devices one can use for streaming, there is no reason to allow your smart TV to connect to the internet.

The real issue is that manufacturers are hiding their bad behaviour in vague EULA language (or just not disclosing it, e.g. Vizio), if they had to be upfront and disclose "We are going to track what you watch and sell this information to third parties" there would big significant consumer pushback.

Re:Say what you will....

[squiggleslash]

It isn't FUD. You will have to pay $225 to file formal complaints. You can file informal complaints for free, but what the hell is the point? Arguing that this means they're still free is like arguing it's free if you yell your complaint at a wall.